Basal thumb joint rebuilt and carpal tunnel surgery at the same time

Dear Ask The Doctor: 8 weeks ago I had basal thumb joint rebuilt, and carpal tunnel surgery on the same hand. I am seeing a physical therapist 3x a week and doing my stretching exercises 4x a day, using hot wax and cold pack treatments. I wear an edema glove and splint after wearing a splint and wrap after surgery, then a hard cast for 3 weeks. My hand still has edema and my 4 fingers are so stiff it's painful. My physical therapist says it's normal because of the amount of work done to my hand. I am a male age 55. My question is this, Is this normal for the fingers to get stiff right after each session, and what is the "normal" amount of time for this to heal? I am starting to get a little discouraged. Thank you for your time. Mark

Dear Mark: Recovery from this type of surgery varies between individuals. The recovery time is usually 6-12 weeks. Your specific healing time may vary significantly. Your fingers are stiff from the edema. Physical therapy will help to alleviate this. Your frustration is understandable, but I urge you to be patient and continue treatment as instructed by your orthopedic surgeon.